Low surfactant iodine topical disinfectant

ABSTRACT

Iodine-containing germicidal compositions are disclosed that remain physically stable for extended storage periods with little to no iodine complexing agent being present. The compositions employ a mixture of emollients, such as glycerin and ethoxylanolin, to create a composition that in certain embodiments presents a cloudy or emulsion-like appearance.

RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/467,874, filed Mar. 25, 2011, which is incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention is directed toward an iodine topical disinfectantdip which provides reduced irritation and enhanced moisturizing effectto the skin as compared with other conventional topical disinfectants.Such topical disinfectants include hand sanitizers, surgical scrubs,surgical solutions and dairy cow teat disinfectants. Teat dips accordingto the present invention are particularly useful in extremely dry and/orwindy conditions.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Iodine solutions have been used as germicidal agents for many years, andespecially in the formation of teat dip products for the prevention ofmastitis in cows. In order to create useful solutions of this type, itis necessary to solubilize the iodine therein. Different solubilizationapproaches have been used in the past, some of which are discussed ingreater detail below. Other approaches have involved the use ofsurfactants or polymers such as PVP that complex with iodine and yieldsolutions (generally referred to as iodophores). Some prioriodine-containing compositions can be quite irritating to animal skin,particularly when used under particular weather-related conditions.Thus, it is incumbent to utilize a teat dip that avoids skin irritationas better teat skin condition means less chance of harboringmastitis-causing pathogens and presumably more comfort for the cow.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,885,620 is directed toward stable aqueous glyceriniodine concentrates that are adapted for dilution in water to yieldgermicidal iodine use solutions. The concentrates include from about30-87% by weight glycerin, from about 0.15-15% by weight iodine, fromabout 0.15-15% by weight iodide ion, and one or more additives such ascompatible wetting agents, hydrotropes, thickening agents, additionalemollients and buffering systems.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,153,229 is directed toward stable aqueous glyceriniodine concentrates that are adapted for dilution in water to yieldgermicidal iodine use solutions. The concentrates include glycerin,iodine, and iodide ion. The quantities of iodide ion and iodine are suchthat the ratio of iodide ion to iodine is from about 0.5:1 to about 6:1.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,643,608 is directed toward stable aqueousiodine/iodide/iodate germicidal compositions that have relatively highquantities of free iodine therein and also substantially maintain thestarting amounts of available and free iodine throughout a storageperiod of at least about three months. These compositions contain fromabout 0.01-1.4% by weight available iodine, from about 10-125 ppm freeiodine, from about 0.005-0.5% by weight iodate ion, from about 0.1-15%by weight of iodine complexing agent, from about 0.004-0.5% by weightiodide ion, and have a pH of from about 2.0-4.5.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0091553 is directed towardaqueous, ready-to-use iodine teat dip compositions that are speciallyformulated for winter time use to permit application to cows teatswithout freezing. The compositions include from about 0.01-2% by weightiodine, from about 0.01-3% by weight iodide ion, and from about 35-75%by weight of an additive such as glycerin. The compositions have freeiodine values of from about 1-60 ppm at 25° C. and from about 0.5-20 ppmat 4° C.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In certain embodiments according to the present invention, there isprovided an aqueous germicidal composition comprising iodine as thegermicidal agent and little to no iodine complexing agent.

In other embodiments according to the present invention, there isprovided an aqueous germicidal composition comprising iodine as thegermicidal agent and at least two separate emollients. In particularembodiments, one emollient is present in an amount greater than theother emollient. In still other embodiments, the principal emollient isselected from the group consisting of glycerin, propylene glycol,sorbitol, polyethylene glycol or mixtures thereof, and the secondaryemollient is a water-dispersible lanolin derivative, such asethoxylanolin.

In yet other embodiments according to the present invention, there isprovided an aqueous, iodine-containing, germicidal compositioncomprising little to no surfactant or polymer iodine complexing agent.In these embodiments, a combination of emollients, particularly glycerinand ethoxylanolin are used to solubilize or stably disperse the iodineand provide a composition having a cloudy or hazy appearance. In certainembodiments, iodide can also be used to assist with solubilizing iodine.

In still other embodiments according to the present invention, there isprovided a ready-to-use germicidal composition comprising less than 0.5%by weight of a surfactant or polymer iodine complexing agent. Thecomposition generally comprises from about 0.05 to about 1.5% by weightof iodine, from 0.05 to about 10% by weight of water-soluble lanolinderivative, and at least one gum thickener. As a ready-to-useformulation, the composition may be applied to an animal's teat withoutfurther dilution.

In still other embodiments according to the present invention, there isprovided methods for treating animal skin, particularly bovine teats, byapplying thereto a germicidal composition as described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a photograph comparing the appearance on skin of acommercially available teat dip composition and an exemplary compositionmade in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 2 is a photograph comparing the appearance of a teat dipcomposition made in accordance with the present invention, acommercially available teat dip composition, and an iodine solution.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The present invention is generally directed toward teat dip compositionsthat comprise germicidally effective amounts of iodine that remainsphysically stable within the composition without the use of or usingonly very small amounts of iodine complexing agents, especiallysurfactant or polymer iodine complexing agents. Iodine itself is notsoluble in water to any appreciable extent (only about 300 ppm at roomtemperature). In order to create aqueous iodine-containing compositionsa solvent for the iodine, such as an alcohol, or an iodine complexingagent, such as iodide ion or a surfactant, must be used. Alcohols, suchas isopropyl alcohol, and traditional iodine complexing agents can causeirritation to animal skin, particularly when used in relatively largeamounts.

The present invention overcomes these shortcomings of traditionaliodine-based germicidal compositions by employing a combination ofskin-friendly emollients in which the iodine is dispersed with minimalto no traditional iodine complexing agents. Thus, the resultingcomposition is less irritating to animal skin, but remains physicallystable for extended storage periods.

In certain embodiments according to the present invention, thegermicidal composition is a ready-to-use aqueous formulation that doesnot require further dilution prior to application to the animal. Inparticular embodiments, the composition comprises at least two emollientcomponents. The first, or primary, emollient may comprise glycerin,propylene glycol, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol, or mixtures thereof.Particularly, the primary emollient is present in the composition at alevel of between about 5 to about 75% by weight, between about 10 toabout 50% by weight, or between about 20 to about 30% by weight, basedupon the weight of the entire composition.

The secondary emollient is generally present in lesser amounts than theprimary emollient, but this need not always be the case. In certainembodiments according to the present invention, the secondary emollientis a water-dispersible, or even water-soluble, lanolin derivative, suchas an alkoxylated lanolin composition (e.g., ethoxylanolin). Anexemplary ethoxylanolin composition is a PEG-75 lanolin compositionavailable under the name Laneto 50 from RITA Corporation. Furtherexemplary water-dispersible lanolin derivatives include acetylatedlanolin, hydroxylated lanolin, lanolin alcohols and lanolin acids.Lanolin alcohols and acid can further be acetylated, hydroxylated, andalkoxylated. This secondary emollient can be used at a level of betweenabout 0.05 to about 10% by weight, between about 0.1 to about 5% byweight, or between about 0.5 to about 3% by weight, based upon theweight of the entire composition.

Certain embodiments of the present invention contain iodine present at alevel of between about 0.05% to about 1.5% by weight, or between about0.2 to about 0.9% by weight, or between 0.25 to about 0.75% by weightbased on the total weight of the composition. It is noted that theforegoing iodine amounts are traditionally referred to as the “availableiodine” in the composition. This is contrasted with the “free iodine” inthe composition. As used herein, “free iodine” is the concentration ofI₂ which is not complexed with other species such as iodide ions I₃ ⁻ orother complexing agents. A certain concentration of free iodine I₂ isalways present in iodine solutions because of equilibrium reactions suchas I₃ ⁻⇄I₂+I⁻, or in general, I₂ (complexing agent)⇄I₂+ complexingagent. Free iodine is preferably determined by the method of Winicov etal., Proc. Int. Symposium on Povidone, University of Kentucky College ofPharmacy, pp. 186-92 (1983), incorporated by reference herein. Incertain embodiments, the compositions have a free iodine concentrationof between about 1 to about 25 ppm, between about 2 to about 15 ppm,between about 3 to about 10 ppm, or about 5 ppm.

In order to make incorporation of iodine into the teat dip compositionsof the present invention more convenient, the iodine may be providedinitially in the form of a concentrated glycerin dispersion. In order toensure the chemical stability of the iodine in this concentrateddispersion, the dispersion also comprises minor levels of iodide ion.One exemplary iodine/glycerin concentrate is formulated as follows:28.5% by weight iodine, 12.3% by weight sodium iodide, 48% by weightglycerin, and 11.2% by weight water. However, it is within the scope ofthe present invention for iodine to be directly added into thecomposition without having first been dispersed in an intermediate.

It has been discovered that at certain iodine to secondary emollientratios, that the compositions acquires a velvety, hazy, or milkyappearance that resembles a suspension or an emulsion. Thischaracteristic imparts a smooth feel or texture to the teat dipcomposition. In addition, this feature causes the composition as a wholeto take on an opaque appearance, which further accentuates therelatively low iodine levels present in the composition. Thus, itbecomes much easier to visually identify the composition on the animal'sskin once applied. In certain embodiments, the ratio of iodine tosecondary emollient is between about 1:0.01 to about 1:25, about 1:0.05to about 1:25, about 1:0.025 to about 1:25, about 1:0.1 to about 1:25,about 1:1 to about 1:20, or between about 1:2 to about 1:12, or betweenabout 1:3 to about 1:8. In certain embodiments the velvety, hazy, ormilky appearance can be attributed to particles suspended in thecomposition. In particular embodiments, it has been discovered that theparticles form in the presence of iodine and have an average particlesize of between about 25 nm to about 5 μm, between about 75 nm to about2.5 μm, between about 100 nm to about 1 μm, or between about 250 nm toabout 750 nm, as determined by photomicroscopy (a Nikon light microscopeat 400× magnification was employed). Particle size was also confirmed bydynamic light scattering (DLS) using a Zetasizer instrument. In DLStesting, samples were diluted with water in order to obtain a workableparticle concentration for the instrument. DLS testing was performed at25° C. over an 80 second duration. The count rate was 140.3 kcps, themeasurement position was 0.65 mm, and the attenuator setting was 3. Itis believed that the particles comprise iodine that is complexed with atleast some of the secondary emollient, such as a lanolin derivative.

These aesthetic aspects are illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. In FIG. 1, thecomposition on the left is a commercial composition, VELOUCID, afilm-forming emulsion based on iodine complexed with PVP available fromEcolab. The composition on the right is an exemplary compositionaccording to the present invention, particularly formulation 6 of Table1 below. It can be seen that formulation 6 is darker in color, butexhibits a very similar milky/hazy appearance that shows up well whenapplied to skin. In FIG. 2, formulation 6 was dipped onto the far lefttest tube, VELOUCID onto the center test tube, and a 0.5% iodinesolution onto the far right test tube. The 0.5% iodine solution is muchclearer in appearance and does not exhibit the milky/hazy appearance offormulation 6 and VELOUCID. Thus, the present invention is able toachieve very similar aesthetic characteristics of the VELOUCIDcomposition, without the use of a traditional iodine-surfactant complex.

As noted above, the use of traditional complexing agents can be avoidedor substantially reduced. Particularly, embodiments according to thepresent invention present an iodide/iodine ratio of between about 0 (noiodide) to about 0.6:1, between about 0.001 to about 0.5, between about0.005:1 to about 0.25:1, or between about 0.01:1 to about 0.1:1.Although not added for purposes of complexing iodine, iodide ion andiodate ion can be added to the composition to provide for chemicalstability of the iodine thereby ensuring levels of available iodine aremaintained according to the following chemical equation:IO₃ ⁻+5I⁻+6H⁺→3I₂+3H₂OCompositions according to the present invention may comprise iodide ion,added to the composition as sodium or potassium iodide, at a level ofbetween 0 to about 1% by weight, or between about 0.001 to about 0.5% byweight, or between about 0.01 to about 0.25% by weight.

Also, certain embodiments according to the present invention compriselittle or no surfactant which is capable of complexing with iodine.Exemplary iodine-complexing surfactants or polymers that can be excludedfrom the present inventive compositions, or used very sparingly, includenonylphenol ethoxylate, alcohol ethoxylate, alcohol alkoxylate, ethyleneoxide-propylene oxide copolymers (such as Pluronic surfactants availablefrom BASF), and PVP. Accordingly, such iodine-complexing surfactants arepresent in the compositions at a level of less than 1.5% by weight, lessthan 0.5% by weight, less than 0.1% by weight. In other embodimentsaccording to the present invention the ratio of iodine to iodinecomplexing surfactant or polymer is 1:<2, or 1:<1, or 1:<0.5.

Compositions in accordance with certain embodiments of the presentinvention should be stable for a period of at least one month at roomtemperature (i.e., about 25° C.) storage, preferably for a period ofthree months, more preferably for a period of at least about six months,and most preferably for a period of at least about one year. As usedherein with reference to the compositions “stable” means that thecompositions remain as substantially homogeneous solutions orsuspensions, with little to no visible iodine precipitation and nosubstantial layering or separation, throughout a given storage period atroom temperature and at least 80%, and in some embodiments, at least 90%of the starting iodine concentration remains.

The pH of the composition is adjusted so as to be within a desiredrange. Buffer compositions may be employed to help maintain the pHwithin this desired range. Exemplary buffers include citric acid andsodium hydroxide. In certain embodiments, the pH of the composition isbetween about 3 to about 6, or between about 3.5 to about 5.5, orbetween about 4 to about 5.5.

In certain embodiments, a non-iodine complexing wetting agent can beused to help improve the feel of the composition or to improve wettingproperties. Exemplary wetting agents include AEROSOL OT 75, sodiumdioctyl sulfosuccinate, available from Cytec Industries, West Paterson,N.J. Other exemplary wetting agents include sulfonates such as the alkylsulfonates, aryl sulfonates, alkyl aryl sulfonates, alkyl diphenyloxidedisulfonate, dialkyl sodium sulfosuccinates, sulfonated amphoterics suchas alkylamphohydroxy propyl sulfonate, polysulfonates such aslignosulfate, C₈-C₁₆ alkyl polyglycosides, sodium alcohol sulfates, andmixtures thereof. The wetting agent should be present at levels that donot exceed 2% by weight, or 0.25% by weight, or 0.1% by weight.

Compositions according to the present invention may also comprisethickeners to adjust the viscosity of the composition. Exemplarythickeners include cellulose derivatives such as hydroxy ethylcelluloseand carboxy methylcellulose, sodium alginate, xanthan gum, gum arabic,carageenan and mixtures thereof. The thickeners can be used at a levelof between 0 to about 5% by weight, or between about 0.01 to about 2% byweight, or between about 0.05 to about 1% by weight and are used tocreate approximate viscosities of 2 to 5000, to 4000, 30 to 3000, 100 to2500, 250 to 2000, 400 to 1500, 500 to 1250, or 700 to 1000 cP. Theviscosities disclosed herein, unless otherwise indicated, were measuredusing a Brookfield LV viscometer using spindle #2 at 12 rpm, in therange of about 2000 cP and below, and 6 rpm for viscosities greater thanabout 2000 cP.

EXAMPLES

Table 1 provides several exemplary formulations made in accordance withthe present invention. It is understood, however, that these examplesare provided by way of illustration and nothing therein should be takenas a limitation upon the overall scope of the invention.

TABLE 1 Ingredients (% w/w) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Pluronic P105 — 0.25 0.200.30 — — — — — Glycerin 24.50 24.50 24.50 24.50 24.10 24.50 24.50 24.5024.50 Laneto 50 (PEG-75 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.50 1.50 1.30 1.50 1.70lanolin) Citric Acid 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10monohydrate Xanthan Gum 0.35 0.40 0.45 0.45 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50(Keltrol) Sodium iodide, 57% 0.40 — — — — — — — — Glycerin-iodine 0.950.90 0.90 0.90 0.80 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 concentrate* Sodium iodate —0.10 0.15 0.15 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 Aerosol OT 75 — 0.05 0.05 0.050.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 NaOH 50% (10%) 0.05 0.08 0.08 0.08 0.12 0.14(0.50) (0.50) (0.50) Water 72.65 72.62 72.57 72.47 72.73 72.21 72.0571.85 71.80 pH target 4 5.5 5.5 5.5 4 5 5.5 5.5 5.5 *Glycerin-iodineconcentrate comprising 28% iodine.

Formulations 1-9 all exhibited a hazy appearance, and exhibited shelfstability for at least one month. Further, formulas 7-8 suggesting thatvarying the ethoxylanolin concentration from 1.3 wt. % to 1.7 wt. % doesnot affect stability.

Tables 2-16 provide several additional exemplary formulations made inaccordance with the present invention. The glycerin-iodine complexutilized in the formulations of Tables 2-15 comprised 0.36 g of iodideand 1.7 g of glycerin for every gram of iodine (I₂). All of the abovecompositions show acceptable stability and provide and hazy appearance.

TABLE 2 Variations on Iodine/Lanolin ratios Formulations Ingredients (%w/w) D E F G H I J K L Laneto 50 0.20 0.20 0.20 1.50 1.50 1.50 10.0010.00 10.00 Glycerin 0.00 25.00 50.00 0.00 25.00 50.00 0.00 25.00 50.00Glycerin-iodine complex 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 DIWater 98.90 73.90 48.90 97.60 72.60 47.60 89.10 64.10 39.10 Amount ofundissolved 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 3 3 iodine % avail iodine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.250.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 % ethoxylanolin 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.75 0.75 0.755.00 5.00 5.00 iodine/lanolin ratio 2.5 2.5 2.5 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.1 0.1Formulations Ingredients (% w/w) M N O P Q R S T U Laneto 50 0.20 0.200.20 1.50 1.50 1.50 10.00 10.00 10.00 Glycerin 0.00 25.00 50.00 0.0025.00 50.00 0.00 25.00 50.00 Glycerin-iodine complex 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.81.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 DI Water 98.00 73.00 48.00 96.70 71.70 46.70 88.20 63.2038.20 Amount of undissolved 2 1 1 1 2 2 3 3 3 iodine % avail iodine 0.50.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 % ethoxylanolin 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.75 0.750.75 5.00 5.00 5.00 iodine/lanolin ratio 5.0 5.0 5.0 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.1 0.10.1 Formulations Ingredients (% w/w) V W X Y Z AA BB CC DD Laneto 500.20 0.20 0.20 1.50 1.50 1.50 10.00 10.00 10.00 Glycerin 0.00 25.0050.00 0.00 25.00 50.00 0.00 25.00 50.00 Glycerin-iodine complex 3.6 3.63.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 DI Water 96.20 71.20 46.20 94.90 69.90 44.9086.40 61.40 36.40 Amount of undissolved 3 3 1 2 2 3 3 3 3 iodine % availiodine 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 % ethoxylanolin 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.75 0.75 0.755.00 5.00 5.00 iodine/lanolin ratio 10.0 10.0 10.0 1.3 1.3 1.3 0.2 0.20.2 Amount of undissolved Iodine: 0 = none; 1 = trace; 2 = moderate; 3major amount

The formulations in Table 2 were prepared and observed for the presenceof residue (iodine crystals) after mixing. All formulations had anemulsion-like appearance, with the exception of formulations J, K, andL, which appeared clear. Further, all formulations were unable todissolve all the iodine, as evidenced by the presence of residue. Theseexamples do not contain and adequate amount of thickener.

TABLE 3 Effect of a Thickener on Iodine Solubility Formulations (% w/w)35A 35B Laneto 50 1.5 1.5 Glycerin 25 25 Glycerin-iodine complex 0.9 0.9DI Water 72.6 72.6 Xanthan gum 0 0.1 Undissolved Iodine Fair Very minorpresent? amount trace amount

The results of Table 3 suggested that the presence of a thickener (orincreased viscosity, in general) can decrease the amount of undissolvediodine present after mixing.

Tables 4a and 4b: Variation of Xanthan Gum Concentrations and Effect ofIodine Solubility

TABLE 4a Formulations A B C D Ingredients (% w/w) 0.3% xanthan gum 3.316.7 33.4 50.1 stock Laneto 50 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 Glycerin 25.0 25.0 25.025.0 Glycerin-iodine 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 complex DI Water 69.3 55.9 39.222.5 % xanthan gum 0.01 0.05 0.10 0.15 (Keltrol RD) Iodine crystals onyes yes, less yes, less no top? than A* than A* Viscosity, 23 C., sp. 2,cP 30 rpm — 65 131 60 rpm — 46 85 *Formulations B&C had about the sameamount of crystals

TABLE 4b Formulations A B C Ingredients (% w/w) 0.5% xanthan gum stock30.0 40.0 50.0 Laneto 50 1.5 1.5 1.5 Glycerin 25.0 25.0 25.0Glycerin-iodine complex 0.9 0.9 0.9 DI Water 42.6 32.6 22.6 % xanthangum (Keltrol 0.15 0.20 0.25 RD) iodine crystals on top? No no no Residueon bottom at 2 yes no no wks? Viscosity, 22 C., sp. 1, cP  6 rpm — — 94312 rpm — 392 — 30 rpm 135 — 60 rpm 88 — — Viscosity, 22 C., sp. 2, 20167 280 414 rpm

All formulations prepared in Tables 4a and 4b had an emulsion likeappearance after mixing. These results suggested that a minimum amountof xanthan gum in the range of 0.1 to 0.15% provided initialhomogeneity. Further, the results suggested that a minimum amount ofxanthan gum in the range of 0.15 to 0.2% provided for two weekhomogeneity.

Tables 5a, 5b, and 5c: Effect of Various Thickeners

TABLE 5a Thickener Legend for Tables 5b and 5c Stock FormulationSolution reference (% w/w) Thickener Type A 0.5 Natrosol 250HRHydroxyethylcellulose (AF030) (DP* = 3700) B 0.5 Natrosol 250KRHydroxyethylcellulose (AF041) (DP* = 2000) C 1 TIC TicaloseCarboxymethylcellulose CMC15 (low polymerization) D 0.5 TIC TicaloseCarboxymethylcellulose CMC6000 (medium polymerization) E 0.375 TICTicalose Carboxymethylcellulose CMC15000 (high polymerization) F 0.5 TICTICA-algin Sodium alginate HG600F G 1 TIC Colloid Carageenan + NaClPM-9399 *DP = degree of polymerization

TABLE 5b Formulations Ingredients (% w/w) A1 B1 C1 D1 E1 F1 G1 Thickenerstock 30.00 30.00 15.00 30.00 40.00 30.00 15.00 solution Laneto 50 1.501.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 Glycerin 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.0025.00 25.00 Glycerin-iodine 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 complexDI Water 42.60 42.60 57.60 42.60 32.60 42.60 57.60 Viscosity, sp 1, 12.09.3 7.6 41.0 55.0 13.7 8.7 60 rpm % thickener 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.150.15 0.15 iodine crystals no yes yes yes yes yes yes on top initially?iodine crystals on mod mod mod heavier light mod light bottom after 1day?

TABLE 5c Formulations Ingredients (% w/w) A2 B2 C2 D2 E2 F2 G2 D3 G3Thickener stock 72.6 72.6 72.6 72.6 72.6 72.6 72.6 74.1 74.1 solutionLaneto 50 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 none none Glycerin 25.0 25.0 25.025.0 25.0 25.0 25.0 25.0 25.0 Glycerin-iodine 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.90.9 0.9 0.9 complex DI Water 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 — — Viscosity,sp 1, 60 rpm 53.0 21.0 15.0 >100 >100 42.0 64.0 — — Viscosity, sp 1, 12rpm — — — 244.0 — — — — — Viscosity, sp 1, 30 rpm — — — — 191.0 — — — —% thickener 0.36 0.36 0.73 0.36 0.27 0.36 0.73 0.37 0.74 iodine crystalson top no no yes very yes yes no Clear, 2 layers initially? slt homoTop-clear geneous Bottom- opaque iodine crystals on yes yes yes yes nono no bottom initially? iodine crystals on NA NA NA heavy NA NA slt ontop, bottom after 3 days? none on bottom

In the above tables, the effect of thickeners besides xanthan gum wasevaluated. All formulations from Tables 5b and 5c had an emulsion-likeappearance however, most of the formulations contained iodine crystals.Furthermore, most of the formulations from Tables 5b and 5c had a lowerviscosity than the formulations from Tables 4a and 4b, which containedxanthan gum as a thickener.

Tables 6a and 6b

TABLE 6a Stock Solutions for use in Formulations of Table 6b StockSolutions Ingredients (g) A1 A2 A3 B1 B2 B3 C1 C2 C3 Laneto 50 (50%active) 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.5 1.5 1.5 10.0 10.0 10.0 Glycerin 0.0 25.0 50.00.0 25.0 50.0 0.0 25.0 50.0 0.55% Xanthan gum in DI 36.4 36.4 36.4 36.436.4 36.4 36.4 36.4 36.4 water DI water 59.8 34.8 9.8 58.5 33.5 8.5 50.025.0 0.0

TABLE 6b Formulations Ingredients (% w/w) D E F G H I J K L Stock solnreference A1 A2 A3 B1 B2 B3 C1 C2 C3 Stock soln 96.4 96.4 96.4 96.4 96.496.4 96.4 96.4 96.4 Glycerin-iodine 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9complex DI Water 2.7 2.7 2.7 2.7 2.7 2.7 2.7 2.7 2.7 Laneto 50 (fromstock) 0.2 0.2 0.2 1.5 1.5 1.5 10.0 10.0 10.0 Glycerin (from stock) 0.025.0 50.0 0.0 25.0 50.0 0.0 25.0 50.0 Amount of 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0undissolved iodine* % avail iodine 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.250.25 0.25 % ethoxylanolin 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.75 0.75 0.75 5.00 5.00 5.00iodine/lanolin ratio 2.50 2.50 2.50 0.33 0.33 0.33 0.05 0.05 0.05Formulations Ingredients (% w/w) M N O P Q R S T U Stock soln referenceA1 A2 A3 B1 B2 B3 C1 C2 C3 Stock soln 96.4 96.4 96.4 96.4 96.4 96.4 96.496.4 96.4 Glycerin-iodine 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 complex DIWater 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 Laneto 50 (from stock) 0.2 0.20.2 1.5 1.5 1.5 10.0 10.0 10.0 Glycerin (from stock) 0.0 25.0 50.0 0.025.0 50.0 0.0 25.0 50.0 Amount of 1 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 0 undissolved iodine*% avail iodine 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 % ethoxylanolin 0.100.10 0.10 0.75 0.75 0.75 5.00 5.00 5.00 iodine/lanolin ratio 5.00 5.005.00 0.67 0.67 0.67 0.10 0.10 0.10 Formulations Ingredients (% w/w) V WX Y Z AA BB CC DD Stock soln reference A1 A2 A3 B1 B2 B3 C1 C2 C3 Stocksoln 96.4 96.4 96.4 96.4 96.4 96.4 96.4 96.4 96.4 Glycerin-iodine 3.63.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 complex Laneto 50 (from stock) 0.2 0.20.2 1.5 1.5 1.5 10.0 10.0 10.0 Glycerin (from stock) 0.0 25.0 50.0 0.025.0 50.0 0.0 25.0 50.0 Amount of 1 1 0 1 1 0 3 2 0 undissolved iodine*% avail iodine 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 % ethoxylanolin 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.750.75 0.75 5.00 5.00 5.00 iodine/lanolin ratio 10.00 10.00 10.00 1.331.33 1.33 0.20 0.20 0.20 *Amount of undissolved Iodine: 0 = none; 1 =trace; 2 = moderate; 3 = major amount

In these examples, it was desired to identify minimum and maximumiodine/lanolin ratios with 0.20% xanthan gum added. All formulationsfrom Table 6b had an emulsion-like appearance. Iodine/lanolin ratios of1:3 to 3:1 were functional (no undissolved iodine) in the absence ofglycerin. The functional range of iodine/lanolin ratios expanded asglycerin was added. The workable range of glycerin decreased as iodinelevel increased.

TABLE 7 Effect of Iodine Solubility in Presence of Sorbitol or PropyleneGlycol Formulations⁺ Ingredients (% w/w) A B C D Stock* 25.0 25.0 25.025.0 Propylene glycol 25.0 50.0 25.0 50.0 Glycerin-iodine complex 0.90.9 3.6 3.6 DI Water 49.1 24.1 46.4 21.4 Amount of undissolved 0 0 2 3iodine{circumflex over ( )} iodine/lanolin ratio 0.33 0.33 1.33 1.33Ingredients (% w/w) E F G H Stock* 25.0 25.0 25.0 25.0 Sorbitol 70% 35.771.4 35.7 71.4 Glycerin-iodine complex 0.9 0.9 3.6 3.6 DI Water 38.4 2.735.7 0.0 Amount of undissolved 0 0 2 2 iodine{circumflex over ( )}iodine/lanolin ratio 0.33 0.33 1.33 1.33 *Stock solution contains (%w/w) 0.8 xanthan gum; 6.00 Laneto 50; and 93.2 DI water + Finalformulations contain 0.2% xanthan gum and 0.75% lanolin (active){circumflex over ( )}Amount of undissolved iodine: 0 = none; 1 = trace;2 = moderate; 3 = major amount

All formulations in Table 7 had an emulsion-like appearance. Propyleneglycol and sorbitol produced functional solutions (no undissolvediodine) with an iodine/lanolin ratio of 1:3 but did not producefunctional solutions with an iodine/lanolin ratio of 1.33:1.

Table 8a and 8b

TABLE 8a Legend of Thickeners Used in Table 8b Formulations FormulationThickener Type D TIC Ticalose Carboxymethylcellulose CMC6000 (mediumpolymerization) E TIC Ticalose Carboxymethylcellulose CMC15000 (highpolymerization) G TIC Colloid PM-9399 Carageenan + NaCl

TABLE 8b Formulations Containing Various Thickeners FormulationsIngredients (% w/w) D E G Glycerin 24.50 24.50 24.50 Ethoxylanolin 50%1.50 1.50 1.50 Citric Acid 0.10 0.10 0.10 monohydrate Thickener D 0.50 —— Thickener E — 0.50 — Thickener G — — 1.00 Glycerin-iodine 0.90 0.900.90 complex Sodium iodate 0.10 0.10 0.10 Aerosol OT 75 0.05 0.05 0.05NaOH 10% 0.50 0.50 0.50 DI Water 71.85 71.85 71.35 Appearance hazy,hazy, hazy, dark dark light LV Viscosity, sp 1 30 rpm — — 138 12 rpm 335— 198  6 rpm 358 716 270 LV Viscosity, sp 2 60 rpm 300 >500 222 30 rpm346 775 296 12 rpm 402 1040 465  6 rpm <500 1260 670 Physical stabilityTOM ppt OK OK 3 weeks ppt OK OK

Samples E and G were slightly “lumpy” but had no precipitate. It waspresumed that the lumps were undissolved thickener.

TABLE 9 Additional Glycerin/Ethoxylanolin Formulations andCharacterization Formulations Ingredients (% w/w) A B C Glycerin 24.5024.50 24.50 Ethoxylanolin 50% 0.20 1.00 2.00 Citric Acid monohyd 0.100.10 0.10 Keltrol RD 0.50 0.50 0.50 Glycerin-iodine 0.90 0.90 0.90complex Sodium iodate 0.10 0.10 0.10 Aerosol OT 75 0.05 0.05 0.05 NaOH10% 0.50 0.50 0.50 DI Water 73.15 72.35 71.35 Appearance hz, hz, lesshz, dark dark light

The formulations of Table 9 were prepared and further illustrate themilky or hazy appearance that manifests over certainiodine/ethoxylanolin ratios. All samples achieved a hazy appearance.Formulation C was further evaluated to determine the size of thesuspended particles which were believed to be responsible for theformulation's hazy appearance. A Nikon light microscope at 400×magnification was used. A sample of Formulation C was spread undilutedonto a microscope slide. Average particle size was determined to be lessthan 1000 nm. These results were also confirmed by dynamic lightscattering (DLS) testing performed on a Zetasizer instrument. The DLStesting occurred at 25° C. over an 80 second duration. The count ratewas 140.3 kcps, the measurement position was 0.65 mm, and the attenuatorsetting was 3. The DLS testing showed an average particle diameter of496.9 nm, with the majority of the particles being between 100 to 1000nm in size.

TABLE 10 Formulations Containing Xanthan Gum, Buffer, and a WettingAgent Formulations A B C D E F G H I J K L Ingredients (% w/w) Glycerin24.5 24.5 24.5 24.5 24.5 24.5 24.5 24.5 24.5 24.5 24.5 24.5Ethoxylanolin 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.501.50 50% Citric Acid 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 monohydrate XanthanGum 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30(Keltrol) Glycerin-iodine 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.900.90 0.90 0.90 complex Aerosol OT 75 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 NaOH10% 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 DI Water 72.35 72.4 72.95 73.0 72.2572.3 72.85 72.9 72.15 72.2 72.75 72.8 pH target 5 x x x x x x LVViscosity, sp2 60 rpm 50 144 268 30 rpm 72 226 445 12 rpm 115 420 880  6rpm 665 1480 TOM ppt ppt ppt ppt OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK 2.5 weeks pptppt ppt ppt OK OK ppt slight OK OK OK OK ppt

All formulations of Table 10 containing 0.1% xanthan gum had aprecipitate. The formulations of Table 10 containing 0.2% xanthan gumhad a precipitate in the absence of a buffer, whereas the Aerosol OT75(wetting agent) appeared to have no effect on these formulations. Allformulations of Table 10 containing 0.3% xanthan gum did not have aprecipitate and there was no effect by including or omitting a buffer orwetting agent.

TABLE 11 Effect of High Iodine/Lanolin Ratios on Stability FormulationsIngredients (% w/w) A B C D E F G H I J K L Glycerin 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.000.00 0.00 50.00 50.00 50.0 50.00 50.0 50.0 Ethoxylanolin 0.01 0.05 0.100.01 0.05 0.10 0.01 0.05 0.10 0.01 0.05 0.1 50% Citric Acid 0.10 0.100.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 monohydrate XanthanGum 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20(Keltrol) Glycerin-iodine 0.90 0.90 0.90 3.60 3.60 3.60 0.90 0.90 0.903.60 3.60 3.60 complex NaOH 10% to 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.500.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 pH 5 DI Water 98.29 98.25 98.2 95.59 95.55 95.548.29 48.25 48.2 45.59 45.55 45.5 Iodine/lanolin 51 10 5 205 41 21 51 105 205 41 21 ratio Appearance clear hz hz slt hz hz hz clear slt hz sltclear slt hz slt hz hz Relative free hi hi hi hi hi hi Lo lo lo hi hi hiIodine (on Parafilm)  1 day ppt no no no yes yes yes No no no no no no18 days ppt yes yes yes yes yes yes No no no no slt ppt No  6 months pptNo No No No No* No *the earlier ppt apparently redissolved

The formulations listed in Table 11 with no added glycerin exhibited aprecipitate after 18 days. The 50% glycerin formulations of Table 11were stable (lack of precipitate) over the testing period.

TABLE 12 Effect of Stability with Varying Ranges of Xanthan GumIngredients Formulations (% w/w) A B C D E F G H I J Glycerin 25.0025.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 Ethoxylanolin 1.501.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 50% Citric Acid 0.10 0.100.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 monohydrate Xanthan Gum 0.160.18 0.20 0.22 0.24 0.16 0.18 0.20 0.22 0.24 (Keltrol) Glycerin- 0.900.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 iodine complex NaOH 10% to0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 pH 5 DI Water 71.8471.82 71.80 71.78 71.76 69.14 69.12 69.10 69.08 69.06 Iodine/lanolin0.34 0.34 0.34 0.34 0.34 1.37 1.37 1.37 1.37 1.37 ratio  3 days ppt noNo no no no yes yes no no no 10 days ppt very No no no no yes yes yesslight no slight

The formulations of Table 12 show that, at an iodine/lanolin ratio of0.34, the minimum xanthan gum level is between 0.16 and 0.18%. Theformulations of Table 12 also show that, at an iodine/lanolin ratio of1.37, the minimum xanthan gum level is between 0.22 and 0.24%.

TABLE 13 Stability in Presence of Gum Arabic Formulations A B C D EIngredients (% w/w) Glycerin 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 Ethoxylanolin50% 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 Citric Acid 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10monohydrate 5% gum arabic 70.00 40.00 10.00 6.00 3.00 Glycerin-iodine0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 complex NaOH 10% to pH 5 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.500.50 DI Water 2.00 32.00 62.00 66.00 69.00 % gum arabic 3.5 2 0.5 0.30.15 LV Viscosity, UL adapter 60 rpm 4.4 3.2 2.3 initial ppt OK ppt 1day ppt slt ppt no no 6 days ppt mod mod slt ppt slt mod ppt ppt residueppt

The formulations of Table 13 show that, at 6 days after preparation, allgum arabic containing formulations had some precipitate. Further, theformulations of Table 13 suggest that less gum arabic may perform better(less precipitate).

TABLE 14 Gum Arabic and Xanthan Gum Containing Formulations with LowIodine Ingredients Formulations (% w/w) A B D E F* G* H I Glycerin 25.0025.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 Ethoxylanolin 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.501.50 1.50 1.50 50% Citric Acid 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10monohydrate 5% gum arabic 60.00 30.00 6.00 40.00 Xanthan gum 0.05 0.050.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 NaI—I₂ 1.80 1.80 0.45 0.45 0.07 0.18 complexGlycerin-iodine 0.18 0.35 complex NaOH 10% 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 to pH 5DI Water 11.60 41.60 66.90 32.90 72.52 72.35 97.63 97.52 % avail iodine1.03 1.03 0.26 0.26 0.05 0.10 0.04 0.10 % gum arabic 3 1.5 0.3 2 0 0 0 0% xanthan gum 0.00 0.00 0.05 0.05 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 Initial ppt ppt OKOK OK OK ppt ppt 1 day phys Ppt ppt stability 10 days phys OK OKstability *G was slightly hazier than F

The gum arabic containing formulations of Table 14 all produced aprecipitate. Formulations containing xanthan gum as the only thickenerdid not precipitate with an iodine content as low as 0.05% w/w.

TABLE 15 Additional Gum Arabic and Xanthan Gum Containing FormulationsFormulations J K L M N O P Q Ingredients (% w/w) Glycerin 0 0 50.0050.00 25.00 25.00 0 0 Ethoxylanolin 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.501.50 50% Citric Acid 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 monohydrate5% gum arabic 0 0 0 0 5.00 10.00 5.00 10.00 Xanthan gum 0.50 0.50 0.200.20 0.10 0.10 2.00 2.00 NaI—I₂ 0.10 0.22 0.10 0.22 0.18 0.17 0.24 0.18complex NaOH 10% 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 to pH 5 DIWater 97.30 97.18 47.60 47.48 67.62 62.63 90.66 85.72 % avail iodine0.06 0.13 0.06 0.13 0.10 0.10 0.14 0.10 % gum arabic 0 0 0 0 0.25 0.50.25 0.5 % xanthan gum 0.50 0.50 0.20 0.20 0.10 0.10 2.00 2.00 Physicalstability initial Ok OK OK OK OK OK OK OK 1 day OK OK OK OK OK OK pptppt 1 wk OK OK OK OK OK OK 2 month OK OK OK OK ppt ppt

All formulations from Table 15 containing both gum arabic and xanthamgum produced a precipitate while formulations containing only xanthangum did not form a precipitate even after two months.

Table 16, below, summarizes certain broad, intermediate and narrowranges for components present in certain embodiments according to thepresent invention.

TABLE 16 Broad Intermediate Narrow Exemplary Ingredients (% w/w) Rangerange range amount Iodine (germicide) 0.05-1.5   0.15-0.9 0.20-0.75 0.25Primary emollient  0-75  10-50 20-30 25.00 (e.g., glycerine) Secondaryemollient 0.01-10   0.1-5 0.5-3  0.75 (e.g., ethoxylated lanolin) Iodideion (e.g., 0-1 0.001-0.5 0.01-0.25 0.11 sodium iodide) Iodate ion (e.g.,0-1 0.001-0.5 0.01-0.25 0.10 sodium iodate) Wetting agent 0-2 0.001-0.25 0.005-0.1  0.04 (e.g., sodium dioctylsulfo- succinate)Thickener (e.g., 0-5 0.01-2  0.05-1   0.50 xanthan gum) Buffer/pHadjuster 0-2 0.01-1  0.05-0.5  0.14 (e.g, citric acid, sodium hydroxide)Water 10-99  30-85 60-80 73.11

I claim:
 1. A ready-to-use germicidal composition comprising: from about25 to about 50% by weight of a primary emollient selected from the groupconsisting of glycerin, propylene glycol, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol,and mixtures thereof; from about 0.05 to about 10% by weight of awater-soluble lanolin derivative; and from about 0.05 to about 1.5% byweight of iodine, wherein the weight ratio of iodine to saidwater-soluble lanolin derivative is from about 0.3 to about 10; saidcomposition comprising less than 1% by weight of iodine complexingsurfactants and iodine complexing polymers, wherein the weight ratio ofiodine to total iodine complexing surfactants and iodine complexingpolymers is greater than 0.5, said composition being ready to apply toan animal's teat without further dilution.
 2. The germicidal compositionaccording to claim 1, wherein said composition further comprises athickener.
 3. The germicidal composition according to claim 2, whereinsaid thickener comprises up to 5% by weight of said composition and isselected from the group consisting of hydroxy ethylcellulose and carboxymethylcellulose, sodium alginate, xanthan gum, gum arabic, and mixturesthereof.
 4. The germicidal composition according to claim 1, whereinsaid water-soluble lanolin derivative comprises an alkoxylated lanolin.5. The germicidal composition according to claim 4, wherein saidalkoxylated lanolin comprises ethoxylated lanolin.
 6. The germicidalcomposition according to claim 1, wherein said primary emollientcomprises glycerin.
 7. The germicidal composition according to claim 1,wherein said composition has a viscosity of between about 2 to about5000 cP.
 8. The germicidal composition according to claim 1, whereinsaid composition comprises particles suspended therein, said suspendedparticles having an average diameter of between about 25 nm to about 5μm.
 9. A ready-to-use germicidal composition comprising: from about 25to about 50% by weight of a primary emollient selected from the groupconsisting of glycerin, propylene glycol, sorbitol, polyethylene glycol,and mixtures thereof; a secondary emollient selected from the groupconsisting of water-soluble lanolin derivatives, said secondaryemollient being present in an amount less than said primary emollient,wherein the weight ratio of iodine to said secondary emollient is fromabout 0.05 to about 41, wherein the weight ratio of said primaryemollient to said secondary emollient is greater than 5; at least about0.2% by weight of at least one thickener; and from about 0.05 to about1.5% by weight of iodine, said composition comprising less than 1% byweight of iodine complexing surfactants and iodine complexing polymers,wherein the weight ratio of iodine to total iodine complexingsurfactants and iodine complexing polymers is greater than 0.5, saidcomposition being storage stable for at least one month and ready toapply to an animal's teat without further dilution.
 10. The germicidalcomposition according to claim 9, wherein said thickener comprises up to5% by weight of said composition and is selected from the groupconsisting of hydroxy ethylcellulose and carboxy methylcellulose, sodiumalginate, xanthan gum, gum arabic, and mixtures thereof.
 11. Thegermicidal composition according to claim 9, wherein said water-solublelanolin derivative comprises an alkoxylated lanolin.
 12. The germicidalcomposition according to claim 11, wherein said alkoxylated lanolincomprises ethoxylated lanolin.
 13. The germicidal composition accordingto claim 9, wherein said primary emollient comprises glycerin.
 14. Thegermicidal composition according to claim 9, wherein said compositioncomprises particles suspended therein, said suspended particles havingan average diameter of between about 25 nm to about 5 μm.
 15. Aready-to-use germicidal composition comprising: from about 0.05 to about1.5% by weight of iodine, from 0.05 to about 10% by weight ofwater-soluble lanolin derivative, wherein the weight ratio of iodine tosaid water-soluble lanolin derivative is from about 0.3 to about 3,wherein said composition comprises less than 0.5% by weight of iodinecomplexing surfactants and iodine complexing polymers, wherein theweight ratio of iodine to total iodine complexing surfactants and iodinecomplexing polymers is greater than 0.5; and at least about 0.2% byweight of at least one gum thickener, said composition being storagestable for at least one month and ready to apply to an animal's teatwithout further dilution.
 16. The germicidal composition according toclaim 15, wherein said at least one gum thickener comprises a mixture ofat least two gums.
 17. The germicidal composition according to claim 16,wherein said at least one gum thickener comprises gum arabic and xanthangum.
 18. The germicidal composition according to claim 17, wherein saidat least one gum thickener comprises from about 0.1 to 5% by weight ofgum arabic and from about 0.05 to 0.5% by weight of xanthan gum.
 19. Thegermicidal composition according to claim 15, wherein said water-solublelanolin derivative comprises an alkoxylated lanolin.
 20. The germicidalcomposition according to claim 19, wherein said alkoxylated lanolincomprises ethoxylated lanolin.
 21. The germicidal composition accordingto claim 15, wherein said composition exhibits a viscosity of betweenabout 30 to about 5000 Cps.
 22. The germicidal composition according toclaim 15, wherein said composition comprises particles suspendedtherein, said suspended particles having an average diameter of betweenabout 25 nm to about 5 μm.
 23. A method of protecting a bovine teat frominfection comprising applying to said bovine teat a quantity of acomposition according to claim 9.